Gold mining suspected as cause of Cambodian mass poisonings

A spate of mass toxic poisonings in the Cambodian provinces of Kratie and Mondulkiri have hospitalized hundreds and killed at least 16 people since May. Although the causes of the three events are as yet unproven, some suspect it may be due to cyanide from gold mining as high levels of the compound have been found in rivers used by affected communities.

Despite growing public alarm and unanswered questions, the Cambodian government has issued a license for yet another international mining company to operate in the area, as part of a policy to rapidly expand industry presence in the Southeast Asian country.

Subscribe

Support independent journalism in Cambodia

Independent journalism is under threat in Cambodia. The Cambodia Daily's goal is to produce more independent reporting on the news and events that affect the daily lives of Cambodians. We need your support. You can help for as little as $1.